Against Lincoln United, on the mark for Marcus Newell’s men were former Grimsby Town strike duo Danny North and Andy Taylor, along with Jon Oglesby, Jack Richardson and Liam Davis.

Brodie Robertson netted the only goal against Kidsgrove.

The Owls then started their 20th anniversary year by welcoming Lincolnshire rivals Spalding United to Bradley.

The visitors took the lead against the run of play in the 18th minute with their first serious attack. The ball reached Conor Marshall on the right and his hard shot flew into the bottom corner of Richard Walton’s net, giving the keeper no chance.

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The Tulips grew in confidence after the goal and they had a spell where they kept the ball well, as the Owls struggled to regain their earlier fluency.

A frustrating half for the Owls ended when a Davis free-kick hit the defensive wall.

Ithe second half, manager Newell made three quick substitutions in a bid to spark a revival. Firstly, Oglesby came on to replace Norburn and then striker North entered the action with the injured Robertson withdrawn. Finally, club captain Flett was introduced, with Davis leaving the field.